But the hearing impaired Warrnambool woman now has a new canine pal, Tess, to assist her with everyday tasks.

Tess, a five-year-old chihuahua-papillon cross, is sponsored by the Warrnambool Lions Club and was presented to her new owner this week.

She will alert Ms Mugavin to sounds including the telephone ringing, smoke alarm, door bell or knock and oven timer.

Lions Hearing Dogs district chairwoman Maureen Capizzi said Ms Mugavin applied for another dog last September after Sammy died.

“Tess had prior experience as a hearing dog,” she said.

“She was with a lady interstate and her dying wish for Tess was to go to another hearing impaired person.”

Tess underwent a refresher course with Lions Hearing Dog trainer Darren Coldwell before being delivered.

The Warrnambool Lions Club also built a fence for Tess at Ms Mugavin’s unit.

Branch president Rob Cameron said Tess was the second hearing dog the club had sponsored in Warrnambool.

“It’s a very worthwhile cause,” he said.

The club will check on Tess each month to ensure she is a suitable match for Ms Mugavin.

“We will come back and check that Tess is advancing in her training and give her a mark,” Mr Cameron said.

Lions hearing dogs often come from animal shelters or pounds.